As the Detroit Lions are getting ready for the second phase of OTAs and the mandatory minicamp, they received shocking news from one of their best players. Longtime starting offensive lineman Frank Ragnow announced his retirement on Instagram on Monday. The 29-year-old center shared a social media post detailing how he came to the difficult decision.
While the Lions will undoubtedly miss Ragnow, this unexpected retirement presents an opportunity for other players. The competition to start on the offensive line will be fierce, with one rookie standing out as the current frontrunner.
Tate Ratledge Has the Inside Track to Replace Frank Ragnow at Center
As things stand now, Lions second-round pick Tate Ratledge has the inside track to start at center in Ragnow's place. The former Georgia Bulldogs standout, Ratledge, hasn't played a ton of snaps at center during his collegiate career, lining up almost exclusively at right guard. However, he has been working out at multiple spots throughout the offseason, getting reps at center during the rookie minicamp.
Ratledge will battle with Graham Glasgow for the starting center job. Both players were expected to start at guard to begin the season, but after the retirement news, head coach Dan Campbell and his staff have to switch things up. If Ratledge or Glasgow make the move to center, this likely opens up a starting spot for Christian Mahogany.
How the Lions decide to tackle this loss remains to be seen, but it's clear that this will be a huge loss for Detroit. The offensive line was considered the best and deepest position for the Lions, and Ragnow was one of the best players in his position. Replacing him with one individual player will not be possible, and it will require a team effort where the entire OL room steps up. Whether they will be able to do so will be one of the most important storylines for the 2025 Lions season.